Synopsis
A severe hailstorm and heavy rain hit Bihar, leading to extensive crop damage and disruption of daily life. Farmers are deeply concerned about their livelihoods as they face significant losses in wheat, vegetables, and fruits. Urgent government assistance is sought as meteorological warnings for more severe weather loom.Key Takeaways
- Hailstorms and heavy rain have severely impacted Bihar.
- Farmers are facing significant crop losses.
- Traffic disruptions occurred due to waterlogged roads.
- Immediate assessments of damage are being conducted.
- Farmers are calling for government compensation and aid.
Patna, April 14 (NationPress) A devastating hailstorm accompanied by heavy rainfall struck multiple districts in Bihar on Monday evening, causing significant disruption to daily life and resulting in severe damage to standing crops, particularly wheat, vegetables, and fruits.
This abrupt weather shift has left farmers in the state feeling distressed and anxious about their livelihoods. In the Nawada district, particularly in the Warasaliganj Assembly constituency, a fierce storm and hailstorm have flattened fields of crops.
Farmers reported extensive devastation, labeling it a serious natural disaster just before the harvest season.
“It’s still raining. The storm has ruined everything. We are unsure how we will recover,” shared a local farmer.
The ongoing rain has also disrupted traffic, with vehicles moving slowly on waterlogged roads and facing poor visibility.
In Bodh Gaya, hailstones fell for almost 20 minutes, destroying crops of vegetables, moong, and wheat.
Local farmer Sudhir Kumar Pandey noted that only 40 percent of the wheat had been harvested when the hailstorm struck, leaving the remaining crops entirely ruined.
In Bhojpur district, strong thunder and heavy rain caused darkness during the day.
Large hailstones battered fields, compelling people to seek shelter and drivers to switch on headlights even in daylight.
“This strong wind will undoubtedly harm the mango harvest as well,” expressed Babun Kumar, a villager from Barhmpur village under Azimabad police station in Bhojpur district.
The farmer voiced concerns about premature damage to fruit crops. District administrations in Nawada, Gaya, and Bhojpur have instructed agriculture officers to conduct immediate assessments of the crop damage.
Farmers are also requesting compensation and assistance from the government. The Meteorological Department has issued additional warnings for hail and thunderstorms in the coming days, advising farmers to avoid open fields due to the risk of lightning.
“Do not stand under trees or electric poles. Stay indoors during heavy rain,” cautioned meteorologist Roshan Kumar, emphasizing the need for caution and preparedness.
